New Senior Sourcing Specialist brings Enthusiasm, On-Grounds Experience to PSDS

Amanda Williamson just joined UVAFinance as a Senior Sourcing Specialist with Procurement & Supplier Diversity Services. Just prior, she was a Finance Generalist for UVA's Facilities Management. Before working in finance, Williamson worked for both the academic and hospital service desks.

Williamson's experience across Grounds has helped prepare her for her new role, specifically her understanding of policies and procedures.

"In this position, I am performing cradle-to-grave functions for the procurement of goods and services with firms, while complying with State procurement laws and University policies and procedures," she shares.

Having always worked in customer service and valuing the relationships she built in Facilities Management, Williamson found many benefits to joining PSDS. 

Williamson and her husband

"I was looking for a way to step into a more service role, while still being able to utilize the skills and knowledge that I had gathered in finance," she says.  "This team is known for being knowledgeable problem solvers under excellent management and I look forward to adding to that reputation."

PSDS positions require fact-finding and verification, which Williamson finds a welcome challenge in her position. She shares that the wealth of resources positions her for success and a lot of information digging.

"I think my biggest challenge will be knowing when and how to use my resources.  There are so many guidelines, rules, suggestions, laws, etc. that knowing where to look to verify and find information will be essential."

The team has enthusiastically welcomed Williamson, "The people that I have met have been fantastic.  Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming."  

Not that she's choosing a favorite but with comradery a part of the role, Williamson shares, "Frank is the best part so far. He has so much knowledge to share and his documentation is on point.  He has a great attitude and makes work enjoyable."

Williamson as a UVA baby

Williamson's roots at UVA are deep and that gives her extra pride in the work she does. 

"My parents were both in college here and I was born at Martha Jefferson hospital while they were in married student quarters," she shares. "My grandmother was full Korean and married a soldier and moved to the U.S. All three of her children graduated from UVA and all eight of her grandchildren went to college.

Outside of work, Williamson and her husband enjoy time with their large blended family. Williamson also fills her time with family get-togethers, horseback riding, cooking, and reading.